NIGHT SHOW

by

GWEN AUSTIN
Copyright 1997

After sunset's grand finale,
resplendent with gold, flamingo and plum,
the night show commands center stage.

House lights sparkle the fringes
of the black hill across the bay.
Downside-up twins of light and hill
cast themselves upon sky-lit liquid.

A blue heron's hoarse 'grunk'
reveals his flight over moon-shimmered water.

A white blob glides along the glazed surface--
a masquerading gull now silent at day's end.

Hurrying geese honk their way south.
As if in answer, a chill-hinted breeze
stirs and fluffs fir boughs.

Crying its name, a killdee swoops and swirls.
Bats dart and dine upon swarming termites.

Sparks dance heavenward from our campfire
as fir resin flares and flames.
Toasted to golden perfection,
gooey marshmallows nestle between
chocolate pieces and graham crackers.
'S'mores'--how better to bid the day farewell?